"And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, 'Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!'" - Luke 2:8-14

This passage is a breathtaking account of the announcement of Jesus' birth. The radiant glory of the Lord surrounded the shepherds, who were initially filled with fear. Yet, the angel's message quickly replaced their fear with joy, for they were about to witness the birth of the Savior, the Christ, and the Lord.

The angelic proclamation not only brought joy to these shepherds but also announced the birth of Jesus as good news for all people. The sign was clear: a baby, wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger. This was the birth of the Light of the world, in the humblest of circumstances.

May we too be filled with joy as we celebrate the birth of the Light that brought peace and salvation to the world. Let us open our hearts to the message of good news, sharing the joy and hope with all people, just as the shepherds did that holy night.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the birth of your Son, Jesus Christ, and for the good news of great joy that He brings to all people. May we, like the shepherds, share in the wonder and joy of this season, and may we be messengers of your peace and love to the world. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.